(Christian Historical Romance) In the wilds of 1816 Florida, a beautiful slave is free game for depraved men. But for an honorable man, she is a military objective, an asset to be protected, a love that should never be pursued.

Milly's pale skin provides her with special privileges, but every luxury comes with a command. And Milly is done yielding. On the run, she can pass for white only as long as no one demands she lower her hood. But there's hope. It lies in the Floridas in a refuge commanded by an army of runaways. Negro Fort. The first sweet taste of freedom convinces Milly that surrender is not an option. But the U.S. Army is keen on the fort's conquest, and when it accomplishes the unthinkable, Milly must decide whether life is worth fighting for.

Major Phillip Bailey has orders to subdue the uprising and return the runaways to their masters, all the while being forced to fight alongside Creek warriors--the same who etched the scars into his mind and flesh. The same who, in a storm of flame and blood, ripped out Phillip's heart and took her for himself.

And then came Milly...

While musket balls fly, a war of another sort rages inside Phillip--perpetuate a crumbling dream or pursue the forbidden; follow orders or follow his heart.

Love untamed settings from America's past? How about strong heroes in historical romance? Do they make you sigh? Drawn to know more about our Native American tribes and African American history? Then journey into The Ebony Cloak, and come away the richer for it.

About the Creek Country Saga, a Christian Historical Romance Series

Beneath the Blackberry Moon is one story consisting of three complete parts plus a novella-length compilation of bonus scenes.

The Ebony Cloak is a based on a tragic yet little-known portion of African American history. Its characters are real and raw and broken. Its setting is gritty and vibrant. It's story is equally so, holding nothing back. Phillip and Milly's journey will open your eyes to love's potential.

On the whole, this saga will sweep you away to an enchanting bygone world where cultures collide, romance is breathtakingly tangible, and love is hard-won. Open the pages and see for yourself. But be warned--once opened, there's no closing until The End.

EXCERPT

Captain Bailey's face went rigid as he stepped aside, revealing another bicorne-crowned officer just behind him.

The gentleman joined their circle, probing Milly with his gaze. He was handsome, more so than the other two. The upward tilt of his chin, confident set to his shoulders, and seductive smile lifting one corner of his mouth sent a wave of disquiet through Milly's middle.

She'd met this sort of man before.

The silver tassels on his epaulettes glimmered in the firelight and spoke of power, and she lowered her eyes, pointedly aware she didn't belong here, surrounded by such important men, addressing them as if anything she said were worthy of their consideration. She sucked in a deliberate breath and drew back ever so slightly.

Captain Bailey matched her move and slipped a hand to the back of her elbow. She suspected the touch was meant to be one of support. Instead, she felt trapped.

"Miss Milly Wilkins, may I present Captain Jameson Collins?" Captain Bailey's voice was clipped, and Milly feared he was beginning to see through the ruse.

The sound of rattling chains stemmed from the shadows and her eyes darted toward it. Any minute these officers would realize she should be shackled as well. Could they see through the shadows of her hood to the pulse pounding in her neck?

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Editorial Reviews

Review

"One of the best books I've read all year, [The Ebony Cloak] by April Gardner pulled me in and kept me turning pages all the way to the satisfying conclusion. Full of grit,realism, and edge of your seat action, [The Ebony Cloak] is a story not to be missed!" Lynnette Bonner -Author "[The Ebony Cloak] is a tale of loss of pride, civility, and identity; at the same time it showcases the best in humanity and a hope for the future. A must-read for lovers of early American history."Lisa Lickel, multi-published authorLisaLickel.com

"Gardner has gone the extra mile to assure accurate and honest portrayals of the diverse characters in [The Ebony Cloak]. It has been an honor to serve as a liaison between a conscientious storyteller and knowledgeable advisers among modern Muscogee Creeks." ~ Edna Dixon, Perdido Bay Tribe of Southeastern Lower Muscogee Creek Indians.

"Gardner's writing and plotting was so well done it left me breathless. There is heart-felt love and tension on every page. No opportunity to show God's heart for mankind was wasted. [The Ebony Cloak] is a wonderful, passionate novel, and one I won't forget anytime soon."-Michelle Sutton, author of over a dozen inspirational novels

"As soon as you pick up this book, you'll find yourself swept away. This is one of those rare tomes that make sleep bothersome. With her haunting characters and rich imagery, she has written a wonderful sequel...that won't disappoint!"~ AmandaStephan, author of The Price of Trust and Lonely Hearts

"An excellent expedition!" Faithfully Bookish Reviews

From the Author

When I sat down to plot out, The Ebony Cloak I had a goal in mind--to give my readers another book with a unique setting that had the same balance of war and love as The Red Feather (book 1). It was important to me to pick back up with the pattern I'd set in the first part of the story. Not only that, but I had to adequately tie off the romance I sorta left hanging with Totka and Copper Woman. (Dear Reader, you were so patient with me for delaying that happily ever after. Thank you!) It was a tall order. And one I couldn't fill for months. The story simply eluded me.

In fact, I wrote five chapters of Lillian's story before admitting to myself it wasn't going to work. Lillian ended up with a better story in Bitter Eyes No More (next in the series!). It was then that a bit of history in a research book I'd read half a dozen times over the years, suddenly leapt off the page and took a nosedive into my heart.

Negro Fort.

Within twenty-four hours, I had the basic plot sketched and knew there was no turning back.

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After reading Part 1 and 2 of the Blackberry Moon series I did not think I was ready to give up my Copper Woman and Totka and move onto new and unfamiliar characters. However, I couldn't have been more wrong. April Gardner continues to allow us time with our precious Adela and Totka, but also introduces us to a different perspective of the same historical period. I loved it. This book indeed has heightened my awareness of the historical significance of both settlers and run aways who blazed a trail before us in Spanish Florida and The Mississippi Territory. Thank you April Gardner for once again bringing history to life and sharing your faith with your readers through characters that are so much like us. . .flawed and broken and yet still redeemable by our Lord's mercy and grace.

This story relates to the wars happening between the creek, U. S. Army, and Seminoles, and the runaways of Negro Fort. Battles and love's. The tragic stories of life unfolding. Runaways killed and injured, returned to their masters or sold on the auction block if no master came to claim them. Also about a love between Captain Bailey and a beautiful woman who was trying to hide her hair which showed the other half of her parentage. Beautiful story well written. Enjoy I did.

Warring Spirits is the sequel to Wounded Spirits. Although it's a continuation of the story and we see some of the same characters, this story is mostly about Phillip and how his heart is changed as he deals with runaway slaves in Seminole country; and how Milly turns his life upside down. Totka is also a part of the armed force that is trying to bring the slaves back to their masters. This is a wonderful character driven story. Because Milly is a beautiful light-skinned slave she is lusted after by the soldiers. Be prepared for discrete scenes of attacks on her or specific warnings to the men.I couldn't put it down for wanting to know what happened next. I just wish that the story didn't end so abruptly - will there be a book three letting me know how everything finally ends up?

Being swept completely off my feet by this second book "Warring Spirits" continued from "Wounded Spirits". Just when you think that it couldn't get any better it does. We discover new characters and revisit old ones. Mostly focused on Phillip Bailey and his aftermath of the massacre of Fort Mims, he meets up with a most interesting woman, a slave; this story takes us on an interesting journey into discovering our dependence upon God and His direction and realizing we are powerless without Him. Every single character is fully developed and well rounded. You have no trouble gaining an emotional attachment to each of them. This is a book not to be missed. This book could be read alone but you would miss so much if not beginning with "Wounded Spirits", highly suggested. I cannot say enough about this author. She has done a remarkable job in writing these two books. I have loved watching each of these characters develope and mature. I would have liked to have read more of Adela and Totka than was given in this second book but maybe that may come in the future. Both Phillips and Milly's, and Adela and Totka's love reached across racial boundries, showing love has no bounds. An incredible read and will stay with you long after...

I just finished the three book in this series, and just downloaded the 4th The untold stories. It is difficult to say how much I enjoyed these stories. Full of history, suspense and believable characters. Some I loved and some not so much, but these books are just good historical fiction. I hope April is in the process of writing more. I thoroughly enjoyed them.

What can I say other than I LOVED THIS BOOK. I rounds out the three part series but also stands on its own two feet while promising more to come. It highlights the racial prejudice in the southern US during this time frame, and the characters are so well developed... I highly recommend the entire series to anyone who loves romance, historicals, well researched fiction, exciting twists and turns, deep characterization... let's see.. Did I leave anything out? Oh yes - the faith based elements. I've actually read the entire series twice now and will probably read it again.

I loved!!!! all three books because I enjoy the story without having to read bad words or explicit sex. I fell in love with the characters and love stories. I cannot wait for the next volume 2. I really loved this author and going look for more of her books.